By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru, Princess of Harare
Harare, Zimbabwe (News of The South) – As the city prepares for the official reopening of the Mbare Musika market this Friday, April 11th, following a devastating fire that razed the old structure, a sense of exclusion and historical oversight is brewing within the descendants of King Mbari, the former ruler after whom both the market, the suburb and the city of Harare are named.
I speak on behalf of the Mbari clan, as a descendant I am expressing deep disappointment that our lineage has been entirely overlooked in the planning and preparations for the market’s grand reopening. “Funny enough, we the descendants of King Mbari, the former ruler and King of Harare, have not been included in the plans to reopen the market,”
“The planning guys, the Ministry, and the city council did not spare a moment to think that the Mbari clan are around, and the market and suburb, Mbare, were named after our former ruler and King Mbari, after whom Harare, the city, was also named.”
As Mbari clan we believe that the involvement, particularly through the Mbari spirit medium, could have offered a significant traditional blessing for the market’s fresh start. The historical precedent of authorities seeking our involvement during times of spiritual distress in Harare is key.
“When spiritual problems happen in Harare, authorities are quick to remember the descendants so they do the ceremonies to resolve problems”.
As Princess of Harare a direct descendant I would like dto emphasise the ancestral connection to the land and the ongoing feeling of being ignored. “I speak on behalf of my forefathers and on behalf of my clan that the owners of the land cannot continue to be ignored.”
Adding a layer of mystique and concern, I allude to a significant natural event that carries a profound message that has been disregarded. “The appearance of the Mukuvisi river spiritual snake, “Mukuyazviyo”, signified a strong message which continues to be ignored.” While the specific interpretation of this event was not detailed, the reference suggests a deep-rooted spiritual connection to the land and its natural signs.
My somber warning about potential future repercussions if the forefathers calls for recognition and the restoration of their kingdom continue to be unheeded. “At this rate, I am sure Harare residents and Zimbabweans can brace up for some more mysteries as the calls by my forefathers for the restoration of their kingdom continue to grow louder.”
As the new Mbare Musika market stands ready to open its doors, this expression of discontent from the Mbari clan raises questions about the importance of acknowledging historical ties and traditional custodianship in modern developments. While the market’s reopening is undoubtedly a positive step for vendors and the city’s economy, the voices of the land’s namesakes serve as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage that underpins Harare. It remains to be seen whether the authorities will acknowledge these concerns and engage with the Mbari clan in future developments within the city.
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